dole out
Upper Intermediate (B2) neutral
To give out small amounts of something to people, usually carefully or without much enthusiasm.
"Aid workers were doling out rations to the families in the refugee camp."
Hear it in context
Alton Brown Cooks Food | Episode 14: Sloppy Joe Buns
Alton Brown · 7:25
it does dole out heat very [music] evenly.
The Cast of 'The Devil Wears Prada 2' – Best Moments
TheEllenShow · 7:54
Yeah, they don't dole out compliments very easily.
The Teacher's Dark Secret 2026 | A Thriller Movies 2026 New Releases | Based On True Story 2026
Central Entertainment · 17:07
I heard that coach Braun can really dole out quite an earful.
There are TWO kinds of hunger
MinuteFood · 4:00
in [music] the brain that dole out dopamine, the feel-good chemical.
Real English Conversation: English listening practice
Speak English With Vanessa · 12:44
would tell my dad and then my dad would dole out the spank.